Ask Lambda Legal

Q: Some friends and I are really interested in having a gay pride parade in our city this summer. We went to local officials to get a permit for the event, but we were told that the city would not let us hold the parade or display our banners and flags (as they do for other parades) because the event might “offend” some members of the community. Is there anything we can do?

Q: I’m in high school, and I want to participate in GLSEN’s National Day of Silence (DOS). I’m out to my friends, but I’m not sure my teachers and school administration would approve – can I get in trouble? A: First, congratulations on being out to your friends – it’s wonderful to accept yourself and feel supported by your friends and peers! Participating in the Day of Silence is a powerful way to raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues in schools, and to help combat bullying and harassment. During this year’s DOS, which occurs on April 17th, students across the country will vow to take some form of silence during the school day. The Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) provides materials to students who wish participate in the Day of Silence, as well as materials for schools that want to support participating students.

Q: I have a cousin who was recently picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and she’s transgender. She is planning to apply for asylum in the United States because she is afraid she will be persecuted if she is deported. I heard that there are new rules to protect transgender people in immigration detention facilities. What are they?

Q: I just graduated college, and am looking for my first full-time job. I was very active on campus advocating for LGBT rights, and I’m concerned about how that may affect my chance to find employment. What are my rights with regards to being out while job seeking?